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The Reclusive Billionaire Behind Lidl Is Germany’s Richest Person

The elusive German billionaire expanded a family wholesaler into a $215 billion global operation while keeping both himself and his family largely out of sight.

Germany’s richest person is also one of its most elusive billionaires. Dieter Schwarz, the 86-year-old reclusive owner of discount supermarket giant Lidl and its parent company, Schwarz Group, has amassed an estimated fortune of $47.8 billion while maintaining an exceptionally low public profile. His business empire, which generates $215 billion in annual revenue, speaks volumes. Lidl belongs to a category of low-price retailers that have grown strongly in recent years as consumers contend with high inflation. Its success also reflects a decades-long story of entrepreneurship and generational transition. Schwarz transformed a regional food wholesaler into an international enterprise spanning retail, manufacturing, recycling and technology.

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Lidl’s origins date to 1930, when Dieter’s father,........

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